The Centre and teaching methods

The Centre

Teaching at the Centre emphasises challenge-based, collaborative learning which allows students to draw upon their subject specialism while working in multidisciplinary teams to deliver new and innovative solutions to a given real-world challenge.  

Throughout the programme students work in collaboration with a wide range of industry partners who set live challenges, providing students with the opportunity to gain experience and build a project portfolio. 

For those interested in the entrepreneurial route, the Centre is a place to grow ideas while being surrounded by a network of industry mentors with connections to investors who are ready to support ideas. Just ask fourth-year Innovation students Konstantina and Roman who received a start-up grant and membership of a SETSquared incubator. 

Teaching methods

We do not consider Innovation and Entrepreneurship traditional subjects, so teaching does not take place in a traditional way.  

• Sessions are held in a studio-based learning environment which gives students the flexibility to be creative and work together in teams, whether that be in a teaching room or in a one of our pods or break-out areas. 
• Innovation-specific courses have no traditional exams. Our applied learning approach means assessments are practical with both team and individual submissions. 
• The prototype lab is stocked with everything from simple cardboard to laser cutters and 3D printers, allowing students to develop and test their ideas. 
• Collaboration is core. Units are designed to introduce the principles underpinning successful teamwork and give students the chance to experience collaboration across a variety of different projects and teams.  

At the Centre It’s okay to… 

• Make mistakes
• Ask why and why not
• Be different
• Experiment
• Not know the answer
• Collaborate openly
• Embrace uncertainty